The Autism Society Philippines (ASP) is a national, non-profit organization dedicated to the well-being of persons with autism spectrum disorder. The ASP has been in the forefront of providing services and training to families living with autism.

ASP interviewed one of the member-moms of ASP Diliman Chapter, she is also the Chapter's VP for External Affairs , Ms. Estela Echano or known to us as Mommy Telay and her son, Andre Benjamin Gaban aka Bodong, a young teen with autism. He related that schoolmates will sometimes call him Budoy, and that he would quickly clarify that he is his own person, and not to be confused with the TV fictional character with special needs. “Ako Bodong, Hindi Budoy!”. Presently, Bodong studies in Jose Abad Santos Memorial School (JASMS) and is mainstreamed in grade 5.

Mom Telay believes children with autism have their own interests. She said it is up to the parents to help them explore what these interests are and provide avenues to develop their skills. She said these opportunities can be stepping stones towards independent living. Below are some practical parenting tips.

Mom Telay says, like any other children, Bodong matured in the way he behaved toward others or related to other people. “His plans for their future include having a girlfriend and eventually marrying.” Mom Telay took this opportunity to teach him about being “pleasant” to women.

“Nagkaroon ng mga crush na 7 babae, so I taught him about personal hygiene, like how to use deodorant, facial cleanser, soap, perfumes and how to maintain one's health. I also explain to him about being a teen-ager and also answer his questions about sex.”

Bodong has been seen accompanying his mother’s travels to Palawan, Western Visayas, Tacloban, Ifugao, Bicol, Olongapo and Pangasinan. Mom Telay used this opportunity to teach him about strangers and personal safety. “I also teach him how to protect himself, like when to say ‘That is not allowed’ to someone who might harass or hurt him physically.”

“Like any typical teen-ager, they don't like to be scolded in front of other people. We should be patient in teaching our child with autism. There will come a time that all our efforts will be paid off,” reminded Mom Telay.

*****

Thank you to ASP Angel, Ms. Cathy Genovia, Bodong and Mom Telay for this article. If you have been inspired by this article, email us at autismphils@gmail.com.